Exhibition — Sous les toiles des Polichinelles
A fascinating exploration of five centuries of puppetry in European public space
A little-known European cultural heritage
This exhibition highlights the richness and diversity of the European glove puppet tradition through more than 60 high-quality reproductions, carefully selected from paintings, engravings and illustrations from across Europe. From Pulcinella in Italy to Punch in England, via Jan Klassen in the Netherlands and Polichinelle in France, discover how these emblematic characters have crossed the ages and continue to influence our contemporary culture.
An immersive and interactive scenography
The exhibition offers a multisensory experience combining visual, tactile and audio elements:
- Reconstruction of a historical puppet booth
- Listening station for the different voices of Polichinelle
- Puppet and model presentations
- Manipulation and swazzle demonstrations
- Interactive devices to explore making techniques
An educational approach
The exhibition is accompanied by a rich programme of cultural mediation:
- Guided tours tailored to different audiences
- Immersive audio trail
- Daily mini-shows
- Thematic lectures
- Workshops for school groups
- Educational pack for teachers
A team of specialists
The exhibition is supported by a distinguished scientific council including Didier Plassard (ERC PuppetPlays project), Cristina Grazioli (University of Padua) and Anna Leone (EHESS), guaranteeing the academic rigour and authenticity of the research presented.
Provisional calendar
- 2022–2024: Research and iconographic collection phase
- 2025: Construction residencies and exhibition installation
- Spring 2026: First exhibition at the Théâtre aux Mains Nues (Paris)
- February–June 2026: Lectures and shows at the Musée Gadagne and Musée Théâtre Guignol
- Spring 2027: Exhibition hosted at the Musée Théâtre Guignol (Lyon)
For more information, to become a partner of this project or to host this exhibition, contact us!